Global Leaders to Gather in Abu Dhabi for ICASF 2025

Under the patronage of His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Abu Dhabi University is preparing to host the 3rd International Conference on Advancing Sustainable Futures 2025 (ICASF 2025). The global gathering will take place on 10–11 December 2025 at the Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental in Abu Dhabi, bringing a major international spotlight to the UAE’s leadership in sustainability and innovation.

Set under the theme “Shaping the Future: Synergies Between Nature, Technology, and Society,” the conference aims to explore how rapid technological advancements can align with environmental responsibility and community well-being. The event is organised in association with the IREG Observatory on Academic Ranking and Excellence, strengthening its global academic relevance.

Over two days, the conference is expected to welcome more than 800 participants from around 90 countries. Organisers say over 1,200 research papers have been submitted, with more than 500 presentations scheduled across 10 specialised tracks. The programme will also see participation from 75 partner universities and organisations, highlighting a growing international network focused on sustainability-led innovation.

ICASF 2025 will examine technologies shaping the future — including artificial intelligence, climate technologies and next-generation energy systems. Discussions will explore how these tools can support resilience, inclusivity, and long-term sustainable development. Workshops by Elsevier and IREG will spotlight regional innovation ecosystems and the evolving role of fourth-generation universities.

The high-profile keynote lineup includes leaders from government, academia and global institutions. Among the confirmed speakers are His Excellency Prof Ebrahim Al Hajri, President of Khalifa University; His Excellency Eng Sharif Al Olama, Undersecretary at the Ministry of Energy and Infrastructure; Prof Robert-Jan Smits of Eindhoven University of Technology; and Her Excellency Lucie Berger, Ambassador of the European Union to the UAE. Senior representatives from BRICS, Elsevier, Politecnico di Torino and the UAE’s Ministry of Cabinet Affairs are also slated to address the gathering.

Aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the UAE’s long-term national agenda, ICASF 2025 aims to create collaborations across research, industry and policy. With its blend of global expertise and local vision, the conference is set to position Abu Dhabi as a central hub for discussions on future-ready, sustainable solutions.